Tourists who are not used to driving on Scotland's rural single track roads have been given new advice by police.

Police Scotland is giving driving tips to travellers in a number of languages in a new scheme with Northlink Ferries.

The advice is specifically aimed at tourists who are driving on rural routes.

The leaflets are being distributed as the summer reaches high season and roads become busier with tourists to the highlands and the islands.

Deirdre MacKay, councillor for Caithness and Sutherland added: "As a councillor and local resident I am aware how people visiting our beautiful countryside like to drive their own car into the Highlands to go exploring.

"As local communities we love to see the visitors enjoying the scenery but want them to do so in a safe environment, mindful of how to use the roads and the rules which apply to same.

"I am delighted to see this leaflet which contains very useful information for tourist, particularly those from outwith the UK."

The advice is being distributed at ferry terminals and tourist information centres.

Gus Stewart, the Highland and Islands Divisional Road Policing Inspector, said: "Driving on rural roads in foreign countries can be daunting and we hope these short leaflets go some way to educating foreign drivers' understanding of driving on Scotland's rural roads.

"The roads across the Highland and Islands area are very popular with tourists so all drivers and riders are urged to take take and allow extra time for journey as traffic levels increase.

"We hope that by following advice provided everyone enjoys being out and about on the road over the summer, having a stress free journey and arriving at their destination safely."

James Linklater from Northlink Ferries said: "We are delighted to be working with Police Scotland on this initiative to improve road safety and increase awareness of driving requirements on UK roads.

"Providing these leaflets on our vessels and in our port offices will give the many tourists travelling through Scotland via our ferries important safety information."